Delhi High Court Seeks Government's Plan on Chinese AI Chatbot DeepSeek Concerns

Law/Court

29th October 2025, 11:44 AM

Delhi High Court Seeks Government's Plan on Chinese AI Chatbot DeepSeek Concerns

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Short Description :

The Delhi High Court has asked the Central government to present its strategy for addressing concerns surrounding the Chinese AI chatbot, DeepSeek. The court emphasized the need for early intervention. This directive follows a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) highlighting potential violations of individual privacy, security, and threats to India's sovereignty and integrity by such platforms.

Detailed Coverage :

The Delhi High Court has formally questioned the Central government regarding its plans to tackle issues arising from the Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot, DeepSeek. A Division Bench, comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, directed the government's counsel to obtain instructions on the matter.

The court stressed the importance of addressing these concerns at the initial stage, stating, "There is no doubt that this is an issue which needs to be tackled at the initial stage as well."

This query was made while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by advocate Bhavna Sharma. The petition raises significant concerns that platforms like DeepSeek may violate individual privacy and security, and pose a threat to India's sovereignty and integrity. Ms. Sharma has sought directions to frame guidelines to block access to such AI tools.

The High Court had previously asked the government to obtain instructions on this issue and has now granted time to its counsel to submit a detailed plan. The case will be heard again alongside other matters concerning similar issues.

Impact: This judicial scrutiny could lead to the development of new regulations and policies governing AI chatbots in India, particularly those developed by foreign entities. It may influence data privacy laws, national security protocols related to AI, and the broader landscape for AI adoption and development within the country. Rating: 8/10.

Difficult terms: Public Interest Litigation (PIL): A lawsuit filed in court for the protection of public interest, often used to address widespread public concerns. Division Bench: A bench consisting of two or more judges of a High Court or Supreme Court. Central Government Standing Counsel (CGSC): A lawyer appointed to represent the central government in court proceedings. Sovereignty: The supreme authority of a state to govern itself independently. Integrity: The state of being whole and undivided, referring to the territorial and political unity of a country.